Author Archives: Douglas R. Satterfield
[December 27, 2020] Wilson, a good friend since before the First Grade, called to help him answer a question. His son asked him about starting a military career, and Wilson wanted some advice. What follows is a general outline of our discussion. Many times, I had given advice on starting a military career to High School students but… Read More »
[December 25, 2020] My uncle “DJ” was a cook in the 2nd Infantry Division during World War II.1 He told me many stories of the battles; most intriguing to me was his time during the Battle of the Bulge. However, it was DJ’s wife, my aunt Mary, which I could best associate with as she told us about… Read More »
[December 24, 2020] A few days ago, southern New Jersey missed a major snowstorm that dumped more than a foot of snow in New York City. Thus begins our Winter. In combination with our state Governor’s new mandates designed to protect us from COVID-19, we spend far less time with friends and family. Will this be a long,… Read More »
[December 22, 2020] Like many who grow up regularly competing in sports, we often experience the thrill of victory and “the agony of defeat.” Competition in the world of sports habitually means competing with our fellow teammates, not just the other team. Fortunately, we quickly learn about sportsmanship and are rarely threatened by the success of others. But,… Read More »
[December 21, 2020] I never was a big fan of watching television or going to the movies. To me, it was a waste of time. However, readers of my leadership blog will note that I occasionally refer to films because of their value in understanding leadership. One such documentary, The Somme (2005), is one of them. Are movies… Read More »
[December 20, 2020] World War II was the largest and most destructive war ever. It was a time of great upheaval, chaos, and death. However, the war was also a time that saw America’s traditions carried forward onto the battlefields, the hospitals, and homes. Christmas in WWII was given special attention. Our troops did their best to celebrate… Read More »
[December 19, 2020] One of my early attempts at earning money also involved, unintentionally, filling the role of team leader. Two of my friends and I decided to “make some quarters” by raking up our neighbors’ leaves. I look back to that time, see my ignorance, and chuckle. But there were lessons to learn, and I did indeed… Read More »
[December 18, 2020] There is an old idea about great leadership I keep thinking about; it is most fitting applied to Allen West. You may forget what a great leader said, but you will never forget how that leader made you feel. Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel and Congressman Allen West is a steadfast Republican, American Patriot, family… Read More »
[December 17, 2020] Old war stories never seem to stop. Any time there is one Veteran in the room, you are likely to hear a war story about some event or person. A crusty Marine Master Gunnery Sergeant (MGySgt) told a small group of civilians about the time he was a Drill Instructor at Parris Island, S.C.1 His… Read More »
[December 16, 2020] “Make only important decisions.” So began my first mentoring sessions by one of the most respected sergeants in the U.S. Army. I was a new, inexperienced Second Lieutenant; he was battle-tested, senior career NCO. “Doing so will give your team the power to carry out your orders.” He was originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, and… Read More »